WORKING AT HOME: A MAZE AND PUZZLE BOX SERIES FOR JUVENILE MONKEYS.

Structured learning and memory tests using the Wisconsin General Test Apparatus or automated technology are often employed to assess cognitive abilities of nonhuman primates. These tests require considerable initial training and adaptation to the test apparatus limiting their use for developmental studies. We designed a series of finger maze and puzzle box problems for use in the home cage of juvenile rhesus monkeys. Each problem was made available for a 45-min period on each weekday, alternating mazes and puzzles boxes over an eight week period in a group of 10 male rhesus monkeys (M. mulatta) 16 months of age. The criterion for solving the problem and moving on to the next more difficult problem was retrieval of the food items on 2 consecutive days. Monkeys solved a median of 5 boxes (range 2-8) and 7 mazes (range 3-8) during 40 sessions. Maze and box performance was correlated (r=.61). This level of performance provides a baseline for detecting impairment or enhancement of problem solving ability in young monkeys. Supported by P51OD011107 and HD065826.